In past articles we’ve discussed some of the cool local or traditional-style festivals to check out in Phuket. This time we’ll explore some of the events with a more international flare that have begun popping up more frequently. The combination of the island’s burgeoning expat population, technology enabling broader accessibility, and an increasingly cosmopolitan local population has not only put Phuket on the map, but is fostering a mini cultural revolution. One good example of this shift is the variety of new festivals popping up around the island. Let’s take a look at a few of the latest ones.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC)
The EDC is touted as one of the most exciting and globally recognized music festivals out there, and especially to hit Southeast Asia in recent years. Founded by Insomniac Events in the United States, EDC has since gone global with stops in the US, Mexico, China, South Korea, and since last year, Thailand.
The EDC is a massive electronic dance music (EDM) festival representing a wide range of diverse electronic genres including house, trance, techno, dubstep, and more. Beyond the music itself, it’s renowned for immersive art installations, interactive environments, and mind-blowing stage productions with lasers, pyrotechnics, and themed visual elements. Last year’s event drew at least 26,000 revelers while the 2026 version has moved to a larger venue with estimates of up to 200,000 festival-goers.
DNB All Stars
New on the scene and catering to this popular but niche genre, the DnB Allstars Festival in Phuket is scheduled to take place January 23-25, 2026. The festival harnesses the energy and community of the global drum and bass scene with “three days and nights of heavy bass, high-octane DJ sets, and immersive festival vibes”. Held next to the Hivetel Hotel in Chalong, this touring drum and bass festival touts a world-class line up that will get seasoned fans excited and the perfect opportunity for newcomers to the genre. If you enjoy deep grooving bass lines, energetic beats, and a non-stop dance party, this is the festival for you. To sweeten the deal, accommodation is available next to the venue or nearby, and there will be food and drink vendors on site.
Bukit Jazz Summit
Held each year in April, the Bukit Jazz Summit delivers a week of soulful rhythm and international musical spirit to the heart of Old Town. Always scheduled to include International Jazz Day, this lively event transforms the historic streets and nearby intimate venues into stages for live music.
Throughout the week, the sweet sounds of jazz music emanate from the outdoor stage along the Chartered Walking Street while various cafés, bars, and open-air spaces host additional performances. You’ll find a rich mix of styles, from classic jazz and blues to Latin rhythms, big band arrangements, and contemporary fusion. And it’s not entirely international acts, the lineup includes respected Thai jazz musicians and guest performers from around Thailand. You don’t have to be a jazz aficionado to enjoy this festival – with top-tier musicians, and a lively atmosphere full of dancing and collaboration, set in historic Old Town Phuket, what’s not to love?
